Are their certain laws/Rules Photographers must follow?

Question

What are they? Do they vary by state?

Answer 1

Yes, you have to obey the privacy and copywrite laws. Some are national, some by state. Some overlap!

As long as you are not taking and using other people's pics, copywrite laws shouldn't bother you. Your own pics are automatically copywrited to you, but there are steps required to prove that you are the original photographer.

But privacy is different. There are laws about taking pics of private property or of people on private property and about selling them. Even pics of people in public places can cause legal hassles.

There is more freedom for pics of "public figures", but only in public places.

Generally you should get releases from people or property owners if you want to sell pics of them or their property.

And it's polite (and wise) to ask before taking pics of individuals (especially kids), even in public.

I recommend that you get professional legal advice before taking and selling pics of others in public. Even if you win lawsuits, the cost of defense is high.

Good Luck

Answer 2

the most important is to use common sense.

cameras do not repel bullets, cars, trains etc, avoid dangerous situations.

owning rights to a picture does not absolve you from libel suits if published.

expensive cameras won't take better pictures, but they are more apt to be stolen, broken or confiscated.

never use a camera that is so complicated that good shots go away before the ready light comes on.

Answer 3

No, we are a king without a clown,that means photographers didn't have a laws/rules to follow.Like me,I didn't have a press's card could be able to take Prime Minister's photos.

Answer 4

I know these..U have to get the model release form if u are shooting any humanbeing,also u dont have to shoot in prohibited areas.

Answer 5

Enquirer first. USA Today second.